Digital Theatre is delighted to announce its first release of 2012, Michael Morpurgo's heart-warming Billy the Kid, adapted and directed by Tony Graham.
Revived at the Unicorn Theatre in September last year, set and costume design is by Adam Wiltshire, with music composed by John Avery and lighting designed by Phil Clarke. The cast is led by Dudley Sutton who reprises his role as Billy, and Sam Donovan who plays Sam.
The only thing Billy ever wanted to do was play for Chelsea and his dream came true when he was signed by the club to become a champion striker for the first team. But that was 1939 and with the outbreak of the Second World War, Billy’s life changed forever.
“I am delighted that the Unicorn’s production of Billy The Kid is now available to wider international audiences, and especially thrilled to be involved in Digital Theatre’s first downloadable production aimed at a younger audience. I am excited that children, their families and readers of the book from all over the world will now have access to this wonderful production.”
Michael Morpurgo, Author
"I am thrilled with Digital Theatre's filming of Billy The Kid. Last year I re-staged this production with the original cast as my final show as Artistic Director of the Unicorn Theatre after 14 years at the helm. What I love about the screen version is how it has managed to preserve its integrity which is a credit to the enthusiasm, professionalism and commitment of the Digital team. Being able to watch actors close-up, while performing live in front of a theatre audience, is a real test of their authenticity. We see things in this realisation that, frankly, no-one saw in the theatre version – it’s the same as the stage show, yet it also feels profoundly different.”
Tony Graham, Adaptor and Director
Multi Award-winning Michael Morpurgo is the author of over 100 books for children. He was Britain’s Children’s Laureate from 2003-2005. The stage adaptation of his book War Horse, a co-production of the National Theatre and Handspring Puppet Company, continues to play to sell-out audiences at the New London Theatre and won the 2011 Tony Award for Best Play following its opening on Broadway.
Billy The Kid is adapted and directed by Tony Graham who was Artistic Director of the Unicorn Theatre for fourteen years. A purpose-built, state-of-the-art building, located on the south bank of the Thames, the Unicorn is the national home of theatre for young audiences. Purni Morell was appointed Artistic Director of the Unicorn Theatre in June 2011. As well as creating their own productions, the theatre hosts visits by some of the UK and world’s other great theatre companies for young people.
Billy The Kid, recommended for children aged 8+ and their families, is available now at www.digitaltheatre.com.
Education resources including exclusive interviews with cast and crew will also be made available on Digital Theatre Plus. Find out more here.
Comment on this article
You must be logged in to post comments on this article.
Log-in to my account